Plant Details

• Botanical NameMyrtus communis (Myrtle Topiary)
• Common NameMyrtle Topiary
• Size & Growth Typically 1–3 ft tall in containers indoors; 3–6 ft outdoors with training. Dense, fine-textured foliage ideal for spheres, cones, or standards.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 8–11 outdoors; grow in containers and overwinter indoors in colder regions.
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; small, glossy, aromatic leaves on tight, twiggy growth.
• Bloom TimeLate spring to summer in bright, warm conditions; small, fragrant white flowers.
• Growth RateModerate; responds well to regular pinching and light shearing.
• Light RequirementsFull sun outdoors; bright, direct light indoors (4–6+ hours). A south or west window is ideal.
• Attracts PollinatorsYes — flowers draw bees and other beneficial insects.
• Indoor FriendlyYes, with bright light, steady moisture, and good air circulation.
• Container FriendlyExcellent — classic as a patio or doorway topiary; thrives in well-drained pots.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant due to aromatic foliage.
• Pet WarningNot known to be highly toxic, but ingestion may cause mild GI upset. Best kept out of reach of pets.
• FragrantYes — leaves are aromatic; flowers lightly scented.
• Cut FlowerBest used as cut foliage for arrangements, wreaths, and wedding work; dainty flowers are a bonus.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Lavender, rosemary, bay laurel, olive, thyme, sage, and other sun-loving Mediterranean plants.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsUse a pot with drainage holes. Set the root ball at the same depth as in the nursery container, gently loosen circling roots, and firm soil around the base. Stake standards if needed to maintain a straight trunk. Place in full sun outdoors or the brightest indoor window.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 0.5–1 inch of mix is dry. Avoid allowing the plant to fully dry out, especially in warm, bright settings.
• Soil TypeWell-drained, airy container mix: 2 parts premium potting mix + 1 part perlite/pumice + 1 part fine bark. pH near neutral to slightly alkaline (≈6.0–7.5).
• HumidityPrefers moderate humidity (40–60%). Indoors, use a pebble tray or room humidifier if air is very dry to discourage spider mites.
• Pruning InstructionsPinch soft tips regularly to thicken growth. Lightly shear to maintain shape after flowering. Avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once; remove crossing shoots and suckers promptly.
• Winter CareHardy outdoors in zones 8–11. In colder zones, overwinter indoors in a bright, cool room (45–60°F/7–16°C). Reduce watering, maintain light, and protect from drafts or heat vents.
• Planting DepthKeep the crown at soil level; do not bury the stem. When repotting, move up only 1–2 inches in pot diameter to prevent soggy soil around roots.
• FertilizationFeed spring–summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10 at 1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks) or a slow‑release formula. Flush the pot occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
• Special CareRotate the pot monthly for even shape. Transition gradually between indoors and outdoors. Monitor for mites and scale; treat early. Repot every 2–3 years, refreshing the mix and root‑pruning lightly if pot‑bound.

Troubleshooting: Leggy growth often indicates low light; thin or crispy leaves usually signal inconsistent watering or low humidity.